On the Move's Charter for cultural operators

Visas and cultural mobility

1. Ease the mobility of artists and cultural professionals you invite / send abroad as far as visa procedures are concerned.

Signpost artists/operators to reliable and updated sources of information about visa issues and procedures. Make sure they are aware of the possible length of bureaucratic procedures to get a visa and that the applications are properly prepared and lodged in due advance.

Train somebody in your organisation to make her/him able to support artists during the application process (incl. know good arguments, refer to existing literature/legal information, contact civil servants, asking about reasons for refusal/delays, etc.).

When you invite professionals from other countries, make sure you provide on time all the necessary documents you have to provide/can help with: detailed invitation letter, programme, information about work permits… and include the name and contacts of a reference person in case clarifications were needed.

2. Raise awareness on obstacles related to visa issues at different levels: national – international, political-social.

Take the time to report back to organisations, funders, mobility platforms etc. about difficulties and obstacles related to visa issues. Use existing web platforms to share positive and negative experiences.